Delta Speaker Reaffirms Commitment To Citizen Welfare, Strengthens Ties With Media On Legislative Progress
THE Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, has reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to passing laws aimed at enhancing the well-being of citizens across the state. He made this statement during a meeting with members of the Delta Online Publishers’ Forum (DOPF) at the Assembly complex in Asaba on Wednesday, September 25, 2024.
In his address, Guwor emphasized the pivotal role of the Legislature in upholding democracy, noting that it is the only arm of government made up of elected representatives entrusted with the responsibility of lawmaking to promote peace, order, and good governance. He noted that under his leadership, the Assembly has successfully passed several significant bills, many of which have already been signed into law by the Governor. He further assured that the House Committee on Legislative Compliance, chaired by Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, is diligently monitoring the effective implementation of these laws.
Touching on pressing issues such as housing, transportation, and the rising cost of living, Guwor clarified that these areas primarily fall under the Executive’s purview. Nonetheless, he assured that the Assembly remains open to collaborating with other branches of government to address these challenges.
Guwor commended the Delta Online Publishers’ Forum for its contributions to the state’s progress, describing the media as a vital pillar of democracy. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong relationship between the Assembly and the media to ensure accurate and timely reporting on legislative activities.
“We encourage the media to seek clarification on legislative matters directly from the Assembly to prevent misinformation and the spread of fake news,” Guwor added.
The Speaker also reaffirmed the Assembly’s dedication to addressing the needs of Delta residents and praised the media for its role in promoting balanced and transparent coverage of legislative proceedings.
Earlier in the meeting, the Chairman of the DOPF, Emmanuel Enebeli, commended Guwor’s leadership during the first year of the 8th Assembly, highlighting the legislative achievements and the smooth cooperation with other government bodies, particularly in advancing the administration’s M.O.R.E Agenda.
Enebeli also praised the Assembly’s efforts in tackling security issues, particularly the ongoing farmer-herder clashes affecting farming communities. However, he called for more decisive action to address the situation.
“The continuing clashes between farmers and herders have disrupted agricultural activities and worsened food insecurity in several parts of the state. While we appreciate the Assembly’s efforts, more needs to be done to ensure farmers can access their lands safely, especially in areas like Ughelli North, Ethiope East, Ukwuani, and Ika South Local Government Areas,” Enebeli stated.
He further urged the activation of the Delta State Community Security Agency law, passed in 2020, to strengthen security in rural areas. The Forum also called on the Assembly to pass laws compelling local governments to prioritize waste management, as improper disposal and blocked drainage systems pose significant environmental hazards.
Speaking on the housing challenges in Asaba, the DOPF Chairman called for legislative intervention to regulate high rent prices, which have become a major burden for residents. He stressed the need for affordable housing solutions for both local residents and potential investors. Enebeli also discussed transportation issues, advocating for the introduction of CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) buses and tricycles to reduce commuting costs.
The Speaker who acknowledged DOPF’s upcoming Annual Lecture, themed “Security Challenges: Finding a Local Implementable Solution,” scheduled for November 20, 2024, expressed the Assembly’s willingness to work with the forum to create a more secure and prosperous Delta State.
